Upcoming Test Series: India vs. South Africa
New Delhi: The much-anticipated multi-format Test series between India and South Africa is set to commence on November 14 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. As both teams gear up for the first Test, a close look at the performance of their respective opening batsmen reveals intriguing statistics.
India is expected to open their batting with Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul, both of whom have established themselves in the longest format of the game. Jaiswal has participated in 26 Test matches, accumulating 2,428 runs with an impressive average of 51.65. His record includes seven centuries and 12 half-centuries. In two Tests against South Africa, he has managed to score 50 runs.
KL Rahul, a seasoned player, has played 55 Test matches as an opener for India, recording a total of 3,531 runs at an average of 38.38. His achievements highlight 10 centuries and 17 half-centuries. Against South Africa, Rahul has faced them in five Tests and scored a total of 240 runs.
South African Openers’ Performance
On the South African side, the opening lineup traditionally features three key players: Ryan Rickleton, Aiden Markram, and Tony de Zorzi.
Aiden Markram has contested 44 Test matches as an opener, amassing 2,981 runs at an average of 37.73, with 373 of those runs coming in 10 Tests against India. In contrast, Ryan Rickleton, who has played four Tests as an opener, boasts an impressive average of 72.66, having scored 436 runs; however, he has yet to face India in Test matches. Tony de Zorzi has participated in nine Tests as an opener, with a total of 496 runs.
Statistical Comparison
| Name | Matches (as opener) | Runs | Average | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yashasvi Jaiswal | 26 | 2,428 | 51.65 | 7 | 12 |
| KL Rahul | 55 | 3,531 | 38.38 | 10 | 17 |
| Ryan Rickleton | 4 | 436 | 72.66 | 1 | 1 |
| Tony de Zorzi | 9 | 496 | 31.00 | 1 | 1 |
| Aiden Markram | 44 | 2,981 | 37.73 | 8 | 13 |
The statistical overview provides insight into the performance trends of the openers from both teams, setting the stage for a competitive Test series.
